Oral History Summer Internship

Internship Summary

Learn the skills and best practices of oral history interviewing and archival preservation and access while contributing to the documentation of Stanford University’s history. Tasks will include reviewing and editing interview transcripts and preparing them for deposit into the University Archives; drafting interview abstracts; assisting with metadata collection and interview tracking; identifying and curating segments of interviews to feature on the SHS website, and administrative tasks as needed. The intern will also receive training in oral history interviewing and coordinate, plan, and complete at least one oral history interview. The internship provides hands-on experience for those interested in careers in history, public history, writing, or library/archives work.

About the Oral History Program

The Stanford Historical Society Oral History Program explores the institutional history of the university through interviews with members of the Stanford community. Powered by the efforts of skilled volunteer interviewers and editors, the program has completed over eight hundred oral history interviews since its inception in 1978 and is growing rapidly. In addition to ongoing interviews of faculty, staff, and alumni, several theme projects are currently underway or in the planning stage, including the Stanford Faculty/Staff Project; Sustainability at Stanford; Stanford Athletics; and Alumni Stories.

Internship Qualifications

The internship is reserved for Stanford undergraduate or graduate students. The ideal candidate has a strong, demonstrated interest in history and a passion for helping others tell their stories. Excellent writing and proofreading skills; superior organizational abilities; and proficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet program, and the Google Suite of applications are required. Experience conducting interviews, performing historical research, and video editing with Adobe Premiere is preferred. Students majoring in History, American Studies, English, Communication, or related fields are especially encouraged to apply.

Terms of Internship

Up to 35 hours per week for 8-10 weeks from late June to late August, as agreed upon. $20-23 per hour depending on experience. Must be eligible to work in the United States. This is an in-person internship.

Supervisor: Natalie Marine-Street, Oral History Program Manager

See more information about the Oral History Program

How to Apply